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Learning From Mistakes

Human beings are designed to make mistakes; irrespective of age qualifications and past achievements,it’s possible for anyone to go wrong. However, it is so fascinating to learn how people respond after making mistakes.

A mistake loses its hold as soon as feelings of failure, resentment, anger or embarrassment are released. Some people get offended when they are told, You have made a mistake;they get defensive or argumentative; some cover up their mistake to avoid responsibility; some go into denial; some blame others and give themselves a clean chit.

Each of these responses has its own ill effects: the feeling of failure destroys your confidence; anger makes you bitter and you hurt more people; embarrassment take away courage needed to face people; covering up takes the pressure off for a while but takes away your sleep; blaming others may provide temporary relief; however, eventually the mistake will be traced back to you. To top it all, these negative actions make you a powerless and ineffective human being.

The truth is that mistakes provide a great platform for learning. Find out what went wrong and why. Take responsibility and admit your mistake and apologize for it.

It is crucial that you understand that not accepting your mistake, particularly those involving other people, could be bad for your reputation because it shows lack of character. People are more forgiving when you admit your mistake. So, be honest with yourself. If you feel you are at fault, then accept it and seek forgiveness.

Learn, also, to forgive yourself, there is no point in living in guilt and remorse. Mistakes are not intentional, you never do things to hurt your loved ones and they understand that, which is why they forgive you. So, learn to let go and give yourself a chance to fix things in future.

As long as you live in this world, you will continue to make “SILLY” mistakes. It is however, important not to repeat the same mistakes; if you do then its a sure indicator that you haven’t learn anything.

In conclusion, remember these golden words by Hugh White and move on:” When you make a mistake,don’t look back at it long. Take the reason of the thing into your mind and look forward. Mistakes are lessons of wisdom. The past cannot be changed. The future is yet in your powers.“